Glossary

The documented evidence that proves the history of a piece.

Embossing. A metalwork technique where sheet metal is shaped by hammering from behind to create a raised pattern on the front side.

A necklace consisting of individually set graduated gemstones of the same variety.

 A cut of diamond with a flat back and domed top.

 A stone that has not been cut or polished.

A thin chain that attaches the clasps of a bracelet or necklace together so that if the regular clasps come undone, the piece of jewellery won't be lost.

A reddish brown variety of quartz. Similar to cornelian although darker in colour. 

A long chain sometimes with a pendant or tassel at the bottom.

An Egyptian amulet shaped like a dung beetle worn to symbolize birth , life ,death and resurrection. The flat underside of the ambulate was often inscribed. 

Similar to the scarab although the upper side is shaped as an animal or good luck symbol. 

A very small pearl.  Often irregular in shape. 

A Japanese copper and silver alloy. Dark in colour.

A precious metal which is grey-white in colour. 

A gemstone that can come in many colours but is often seen in deep reds.

A cross traditionally woven from rushes. This cross has a woven square in the centre and four arms which are tied at the ends. The St.Brigid's day crosses are made to mark the beginning of spring and would have been hung above doors to protect a home.

The patron saint of travellers. Often on medals worn on necklaces and brooches.

Devant de corsage. A large piece of triangular jewellery won on the centre panel of the bodice of a dress which extends from bust to waist. 

An activist group in the early 20th century who fought for women's right to vote. 

A set of jewellery  designed to be worn together.

A draped necklace with foliage motifs including fruits, flowers and leaves. 

A lab grown stone.

A classic piece of jewellery originating from 1800’s pocket watches. A long T shaped bar was used to hold pocket watches in place by treading the long arms through a buttonhole. After wrist watches gained popularity these watch chains began to be won as necklaces.  

A style of gem cutting with a flat top.

A jewelled head ornament which does not encircle the entire head but perches on top with decorations to the front.

The colour of a coat of arms used in heraldry. 

Meaning ‘ you and me’ in french. This style of ring comprises two gemstones sitting side by side on a band representing the meeting of two lovers. The style originates in 1796 when Napoleon Bonapart proposed to Josephine de Beauharanis with the first Toi et Moi ring.

A metal collar or neck ring worn in Bronze and Iron age Europe.

Swirl. A style of ring where the shoulders of the ring twist around a central stone. 

Originally invented by Cartier in 1924, a trinity ring consists of 3 interwoven rings. It is meant to symbolise fidelity, friendship and love.

The upright form of a cobra used as a symbol of royalty in ancient Egypt.

A broad collar comprised of multiple strings of beads worn in Ancient Egypt.